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The Tricks of the (Ballet) Trade

In the ballet world, it's not the spectacular moves that make the dancer—it's the nuanced subtleties of artistry, the sheen of immaculate technique. That said, there's nothing quite like a great trick. Daredevil feats can add jolts of electricity to performances, especially when they're in the hands (and feet) of world-class dancers.

The Washington Post recently asked several members of The Washington Ballet to demonstrate, and explain, their "hardest moves." The dancers articulated the difficulties of everything from double fouettés to something terrifying called the 540 battement en rond—while making each virtuoso step look supremely easy, of course. Take a look!